Causes of panic attacks

•    Heredity
•    Biological causes of panic disorder - Obsessive compulsive disorder, hypoglycemia, post traumatic stress disorder, hyperthyroidism, Wilson’s disease, mitral valve prolapse, pheochromocytoma, labyrinthitis and vitamin B deficiency.
•    Phobias
•    Short-term triggers of panic disorder- Emotional attachment, personal loss, significant changes in life
•    Maintaining causes
•    Un-assertive communication
•    Medications
•    Alcohol, drug or medication withdrawal
•    Hyperventilation syndrome
•    Pharmacological triggers
•    Illnesses

Psychological considerations of panic attacks

Even though the victim of a panic attack may think that his/her body is dying, it is in reality trying to protect itself. A sudden sense of fear releases adrenalin that prepares the body for intense physical activity. This causes an increase in the heart rate, rapid breathing and sweating. Because no physical activity actually happens, the carbon dioxide levels reduce resulting in dizziness, burning, lightheadedness and numbness. When adrenaline is released, the blood flowing to the head decreases and this can also cause dizziness.